When and How to Change a Vape Coil

What is a Vape Coil?

The coil is an integral part of all of vape kits and e cigarettes. They contain the wicking material (usually cotton) which soaks up your e-liquid, and the coil wire. This wire heats up when the battery is activated and converts the liquid in the wicking material to vapour. Essentially, the coil is the part of an e-cigarette that turns e liquid into vapour.

You may also see coils referred to as 'atomizer heads', which is somewhat more of an accurate description due to them being made up of several components. However, it is most common for them to be called coils and that's what we tend to call them here at OK Vape. You can find out more about the different terms used in the vaping world here, in our Vaping Glossary.

When to Change Your Vape Coil

Over time, the elements in a coil can become clogged and dirty. Likewise, activating your vape whilst the wicking material is not saturated with liquid can cause the material to burn. This is when it's time to switch it out with a new coil.

If you look closely at your coil, you will see some holes in the outer metal casing. These holes are there to let the liquid into the coil and you should be able to see the cotton through the holes. Does it look a bit brown and dirty? It might well be that your coil has burnt out and needs replacing.

How Long Does a Vape Coil Last?

There is no finite time that a coil will last before it needs changing. The vape liquid you are using and how heavily or frequently you vape can affect their longevity. Additionally, some coils last longer than others due to their build quality.

As a rough guide, coils tend to last between 1 and 3 weeks, depending on the above variables.

How to Change a Coil

This can vary somewhat between devices but many kits and tanks now feature push-fit coils that are changed from the bottom of the tank or pod. These are often preferable because it means you don't have to touch the messy, liquid soaked part of the coil. All devices vary a little so it's a best to check the instructions included with your tank or device. However, here is a quick guide to how to change the coil based on which type of fitting your coil has.

• If your kit/tank features push fit coils
  Remove the tank from the battery or mod, then unscrew the bottom part of the tank (if applicable). Grip the bottom section of the coil and pull it out from the base. You can then dispose of this coil and insert a fresh one.
  Examples of devices that feature this type of coil fitting: Innokin Endura T18 E/T18 II , Aspire Onixx, Innokin Adept
• If your kit/tank features screw-in coils
  Most devices with screw in coils require you to remove the top section of the tank, remove the tank glass then grip the coil and unscrew it from the base. You may want to use some tissue to avoid getting e liquid on your fingers. You can then screw in a fresh coil and replace the tank glass and top section.
  Examples of devices that feature this type of coil fitting: Aspire K2 Quick Start Kit , Aspire PockeX

Always Make Sure to Prime a New Coil

Priming your coil essentially means giving it enough time for the wicking material to become fully saturated in liquid. If you don't do this, you'll burn the wicking material and will have to throw your brand new coil away!

To prime a coil, simply fill your tank with liquid once you've replaced the coil, then allow it to sit for at least 5 minutes before vaping. It may be best to leave it to sit for around 10 minutes if you are using a high VG e liquid, as these juices are thicker and take longer to soak into the wick. You can find further information about priming coils here.

How to Make Your Coils Last Longer